Price: $139.99
Weight: 610 grams (2 pedals); Light Module (60 grams for 2)
Cleat Type: Flat pedals
Run-Time: Eco Flash (36+ hrs); Flash (11 hrs); Steady (3+ hrs)
Charge-Time: 2 hrs for full charge
Pedal Materials: ADC12 Aluminum, high strength steel axle, sealed bearings
Light Module Materials: ABS plastic, Lithium Ion batteries
Availability: Online
How Obtained: Company Sample
RBR Advertiser: No
Better On-bike Visibility for Commuter Cyclists
Distracted and aggressive drivers are major hazards for anyone commuting via bicycle. A study conducted by Clemson University shows that bio-motion increases a cyclist’s visibility by up to 57% compared to standard front and rear lights. The pedaling motion on a bike is bio-motion and the premise behind Redshift Sports’ launch of the Arclight Smart LED bike pedals–making commuters more visible and safer on the road.
A Kickstarter campaign funded the development of the Archlight pedals, and the company recently sent me a set of pedals to test. Upon opening the box, the first thing I noticed was the weight. At 305 grams apiece, that’s heavy! But then I remembered these are for commuters who ride short distances, plus they could be using an eBike.
Installation of the pedals was quick and easy with a pedal wrench. The brochure says five minutes, but it was well under that time estimate. I decided to install the pedals on a commuter eBike I’m currently testing. Perfect scenario.
After charging the four light modules (weight 30 grams each) with the supplied USB charger, I slid them into the pedals, and they stayed secure with the use of magnets. These pedals are really cool and smart! The technology used in developing them is fascinating to me. First, you turn on each light, one front module and one back per pedal. Selecting the setting is just an added touch of the button.
360 Degrees of Illumination for Outstanding Visibility
What’s cool is the pedal detects if it is facing front or back and will change color depending on orientation. If facing front, the pedal illuminates white. Facing the rear, it turns red. This feature is great for when you are stopped at a light and then start up again; if the pedal happens to flip, it automatically knows which way it’s facing and illuminates the proper color. The lights also provide 360 degrees of illumination, including the sides, letting drivers see you quicker and easier.
There are three settings, Eco Flash, Flash, and Steady. Like any bike light, depending on the setting will dictate the run-time. According to the company, the Eco Flash setting lasts about 36 plus hours, Flash lasts 11 plus hours, and the steady will last three plus hours. The pedals sense motion and turn on and automatically turn off when the bike is parked.
Modular Mounting System
Four removable light modules come standard in the box and are interchangeable with Redshift’s Arclight Multi-Mount at $39.99. You can add a mount to the handlebars, seat tube, helmet, backpack, anywhere. The smart lights know the orientation and will change colors accordingly. How cool is that!
Made to Last
Since commuters ride in all weather conditions, the Redshift pedals are made to last. They are waterproof and made from solid aluminum with sealed bearings. The light modules are dust and water-resistant.
Bottom Line
As cyclists, we are all concerned about distracted drivers, and commuters are at greater risk, especially on congested roads. Being highly visible on the bike will make you safer. The Redshift Archlight Smart LED pedals do just that. The bio-motion catches the attention of drivers identifying you quickly as a cyclist. The smart technology used in these pedals makes it so you just turn them on and go for a ride—no worries about the light’s orientation as it automatically detects direction. With the long battery life, you have plenty of safe ride time.
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